WO2023171960A1

WO2023171960A1 - Icemaking apparatus and refrigerator

Info

Publication number: WO2023171960A1
Application number: PCT/KR2023/002691
Authority: WO
Inventors: 서창호; 이욱용; 이남교
Original assignee: 엘지전자 주식회사
Priority date: 2022-03-08
Filing date: 2023-02-27
Publication date: 2023-09-14
Also published as: KR20230132161A

Abstract

An icemaking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise a tray which is provided in an icemaking compartment and has an icemaking cell for making ice. The icemaking apparatus may comprise a cooling unit which provides cold for making ice by the icemaking cell during an icemaking process. The icemaking apparatus may comprise a controller for controlling the cooling unit.

Description

Ice makers and refrigerators

This specification relates to ice making devices and refrigerators.

In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance that allows food to be stored at low temperature in an internal storage space shielded by the refrigerator door. It cools the inside of the storage space using cold air generated through heat exchange with the refrigerant circulating in the refrigeration cycle. It is designed to store stored food in optimal condition.

The refrigerator may be placed independently in a kitchen or living room, or may be stored in a kitchen cabinet.

Refrigerators are gradually becoming larger and more multi-functional in accordance with changes in eating habits and the trend of higher quality products, and refrigerators equipped with various structures and convenience devices that take user convenience into consideration are being released.

An automatic ice maker is disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 5687018, which is a prior document.

The automatic ice maker includes an ice-making chamber for forming ice, an evaporator disposed above the ice-making chamber, a water dish disposed below the ice-making chamber and rotatably supported by a support shaft, and a lower side of the water dish. It may include an ice-making water tank assembled to the ice-making water tank, a supply pump connected to the ice-making water tank, a rotatable guide member located on one side of the ice-making water tank, and an ice storage compartment in which ice is stored.

In the ice-making process, water is supplied from a supply pump while the water dish closes the space of the ice-making chamber, and the water supplied to the ice-making cell can be cooled by an evaporator.

In the moving process, high-temperature gas is supplied to the evaporator to heat the ice-making cell, and at the same time, the water dish is tilted downward, and in the process of tilting the water dish downward, the guide member is rotated to cover the upper side of the water dish. do.

As the ice-making cell is heated, ice is separated from the ice-making cell, falls to the upper side of the guide member, and finally moves to the ice storage compartment.

However, prior literature does not disclose technology for preventing cracks from occurring in ice generated during the ice-making process.

Additionally, prior literature does not disclose technology for improving ice-making speed while preventing cracks from occurring.

This embodiment provides an ice making device and a refrigerator capable of variably controlling the output of a cooling unit during the ice making process.

Optionally or additionally, an ice making device and a refrigerator are provided to prevent cracks from occurring in ice during the ice making process.

Optionally or additionally, an ice maker and a refrigerator are provided to increase ice making speed.

Alternatively or additionally, this embodiment provides an ice maker and refrigerator in which the transparency of finished ice is increased.

An ice making device according to one aspect is provided in an ice making room and may include a tray including an ice making cell for generating ice. The ice making device may include a cooling unit that provides cold for ice generation in the ice making cell during the ice making process.

The ice making device may further include a controller for controlling the cooling unit.

The controller may increase the cooling power of the cooling unit to increase the ice-making speed after supplying cold to the tray.

The controller may gradually increase the cooling power of the cooling unit.

The controller may gradually increase the cooling power of the cooling unit over time.

The ice making device may further include a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the tray.

The controller may increase the cooling power of the cooling unit according to the temperature change detected by the temperature sensor.

The ice making device may further include a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the space where the ice making device is located.

The cooling power of the cooling unit may be determined based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor.

Alternatively, the controller may reduce the cooling power of the cooling unit to prevent cracks from occurring after cold is supplied to the tray.

An ice making device according to another aspect may be provided in an ice making room and include a tray including an ice making cell for generating ice. The ice making device may further include a cooling unit. The cooling unit may include a compressor that operates to generate ice in the ice-making cell during the ice-making process. The cooling unit may further include a cooling unit including an evaporator for providing cold to the tray.

The ice making device may further include a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the evaporator. The ice making device may further include a controller for controlling the compressor.

The controller may adjust the cooling power of the compressor based on the difference between the temperature of the water supplied to the ice-making cell and the temperature of the evaporator detected by the temperature sensor.

The controller may operate the compressor at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray.

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is greater than the first reference value, the controller may operate the compressor with a second cooling power that is greater than the first cooling power.

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is smaller than the second reference value that is smaller than the first reference value, the controller may operate the compressor with a third cooling power that is smaller than the first cooling power.

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is less than the first reference value and more than the second reference value, the controller may maintain the first cooling power of the compressor.

Optionally, the controller may operate the compressor at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray. When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is less than a second reference value, the controller may operate the compressor with a third cooling power that is greater than the first cooling power.

Optionally, the controller may operate the compressor at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray. When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is less than the first reference value and more than the second reference value, the controller may maintain the first cooling power of the compressor.

The predetermined first cooling power may be determined based on the temperature of the space where the ice making device is located, or may be determined based on the type of ice produced in the ice making cell.

The ice making device may further include a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the tray. The timing of determining whether to adjust the cooling power of the cooling unit may be determined based on a temperature change in the tray detected by the temperature sensor, or may be determined over time.

An ice making device according to another aspect may be provided in an ice making room and include a tray including an ice making cell for generating ice. The ice making device may further include a cooling unit that provides cold to the tray to create ice in the ice making cell during the ice making process. The ice making device may further include a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the tray. The ice making device may further include a controller for controlling the cooling unit.

The controller may adjust the cooling power of the cooling unit based on the difference between the temperature of the water supplied to the ice-making cell and the temperature of the tray detected by the temperature sensor.

The controller may operate the cooling unit at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray. When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the tray is greater than the first reference value, the controller may operate the cooling unit with a second cooling power that is greater than the first cooling power.

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the tray is smaller than the second reference value that is smaller than the first reference value, the controller may operate the cooling unit with a third cooling power that is smaller than the first cooling power.

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the tray is less than the first reference value and more than the second reference value, the controller may maintain the first cooling power of the cooling unit.

Optionally, the controller may operate the cooling unit at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray. When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the tray is smaller than the second reference value, the controller may operate the cooling unit with a third cooling power that is greater than the first cooling power.

Optionally, the controller may operate the cooling unit at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray. When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is less than the first reference value and more than the second reference value, the controller may maintain the first cooling power of the cooling unit.

The timing of determining whether to adjust the cooling power of the cooling unit may be determined based on a temperature change in the tray detected by the temperature sensor, or may be determined over time.

An ice making device according to another aspect may be provided in an ice making room and include a tray including an ice making cell for generating ice. The ice making device may further include a cooling unit that provides cold for ice generation in the ice making cell during the ice making process. The ice making device may further include a controller for controlling the cooling unit.

If the ice-making cell includes a portion where the volume or mass per unit height is increased, the cooling power of the cooling unit can be increased during the ice-making process. If the ice-making cell includes a portion where the volume or mass per unit height is reduced, the cooling power of the cooling unit can be reduced during the ice-making process.

A refrigerator according to another aspect may include a cabinet having a storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a door that opens and closes the storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include an ice-making chamber provided in the door or the cabinet. The refrigerator is provided in an ice-making room and may include a tray equipped with an ice-making cell for producing ice. The refrigerator may further include a cooling unit to provide cold to the tray during the ice making process. The refrigerator may further include a controller for controlling the cooling unit. The controller may vary the cooling power of the cooling unit to increase the ice-making speed after supplying cold to the tray.

According to this embodiment, by variably controlling the cooling unit during the ice making process, cracks can be prevented from occurring in the ice.

Additionally, as the cooling unit is variably controlled during the ice making process, the transparency of the ice can be increased.

Additionally, by variably controlling the cooling unit during the ice making process, the ice making speed can be increased.

1 is a perspective view of an ice making device according to this embodiment.

Figure 2 is a front view showing the door of the ice making device according to this embodiment in an open state.

Figure 3 is a cutaway view showing the inside of the ice making device according to this embodiment.

Figure 4 is a diagram showing the interior of the ice making device according to this embodiment.

5 is a refrigerant cycle diagram constituting the cooling unit.

Figure 6 is a diagram showing a water supply flow path in the ice making device according to this embodiment.

Figures 7 and 8 are views showing water being supplied to the ice-making unit.

Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of the first tray unit and the second tray unit in this embodiment.

10 and 11 are perspective views showing the ice making unit and cooler of this embodiment.

Figure 12 is a control block diagram of the ice making device of this embodiment.

Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the process in which water is supplied from the water supply unit to the ice-making unit during the ice-making process.

14 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an ice making device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 15 is a table showing the change in cooling power of the cooling unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

16 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an ice making device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 17 is a table showing the change in cooling power of the cooling unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an ice making device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through illustrative drawings. When adding reference numerals to components in each drawing, it should be noted that identical components are given the same reference numerals as much as possible even if they are shown in different drawings. Additionally, when describing embodiments of the present invention, if detailed descriptions of related known configurations or functions are judged to impede understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, the detailed descriptions will be omitted.

Additionally, in describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only used to distinguish the component from other components, and the nature, sequence, or order of the component is not limited by the term. When a component is described as being "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, that component may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but there is no need for another component between each component. It should be understood that may be “connected,” “combined,” or “connected.”

In this specification, the ice making device includes a tray forming an ice-making cell, which is a space where water changes phase into ice, a cooling unit for supplying cold to the ice-making cell, a water supply unit for supplying water to the ice-making cell, and It can include any or all of the controllers.

The cooling unit is a source that supplies cold, and may be referred to as a cold source.

The ice making device may further include a moving unit.

The tray may include a first tray. The tray may further include a second tray.

The first tray and the second tray may produce different types of ice.

The water supply unit may independently supply water to each of the first tray and the second tray.

The water supply unit may be configured to simultaneously supply water to the first tray and the second tray.

The water supply unit may include a pump for pumping water.

The cooling unit may be defined as a means for cooling the ice-making cell, including at least one of an evaporator (or cooler) and a thermoelectric element. The evaporator may be located adjacent to or in contact with the tray. Alternatively, cold air cooled by the cooling unit may be supplied to the tray and converted into water ice in the ice-making cell.

The cooling unit may cool the first tray. The cooling unit may cool the second tray. The cooling unit may cool the first tray and the second tray independently or simultaneously.

The cooling unit may optionally include a valve for controlling the flow of refrigerant, a fan for flowing cold air, or a damper for controlling the flow of cold air within the two spaces.

The controller may adjust the cooling power (or output) of the cooling unit. The cooling power of the cooling unit may be the output of the thermoelectric element, the amount of cold supplied to the tray, or the cooling power of the compressor. (output or frequency), or it may be the amount of refrigerant flowing into the evaporator.The cold may include at least cold air.

The moving unit includes a heater for heating the tray, a pusher for pressurizing at least a portion of the tray, a refrigerant pipe through which refrigerant flows inside to heat the tray, and a water supply mechanism for supplying water to the outside of the tray. , may include one or more driving units for moving at least a portion of the tray.

The moving unit may separate ice from the first tray. The moving unit may separate ice from the second tray.

The moving unit may separate ice from each of the first tray and the second tray independently or simultaneously separate ice from the first tray and the second tray.

For example, the power of the driving unit is transmitted simultaneously to the first tray and the second tray, the heat from the heater or the refrigerant pipe is transmitted simultaneously to the first tray and the second tray, or the water is transmitted to the first tray and the second tray. Can be delivered simultaneously.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an ice making device according to this embodiment, and Figure 2 is a front view showing the door of the ice making device according to this embodiment in an open state. Figure 3 is a cutaway view showing the inside of the ice making device according to this embodiment. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the interior of the ice making device according to this embodiment. Figure 5 is a refrigerant cycle diagram constituting the cooling unit.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the ice making device 1 of this embodiment can be installed independently to produce ice.

The ice making device 1 may include a cabinet 10 that forms an external shape. The ice making device 1 may further include a door 20 connected to the cabinet 10.

The cabinet 10 may include an ice-making chamber 12 that forms ice. The cabinet 10 may include a storage compartment 13 where ice is stored.

The ice-making chamber 12 and the storage chamber 13 may be partitioned by a partition member. The ice-making chamber 12 and the storage chamber 13 may be communicated through a communication hole in the partition member. Alternatively, the ice-making chamber 12 and the storage chamber 13 may be communicated without a partition member.

Alternatively, the ice-making chamber 12 may include the storage chamber 13, or the storage chamber 13 may include the ice-making chamber 12.

The cabinet 10 may include a front opening 102. The door 20 can open and close the front opening 102. For example, the door 20 may open and close the front opening 102 by rotating it.

When the door 20 opens the front opening 102, the user can access the storage compartment 13 through the front opening 102. The user can take out the ice stored in the storage compartment 13 to the outside through the front opening 102.

The ice making device 1 may further include an ice making unit 40 located in the ice making chamber 12 .

Ice generated in the ice making unit 40 may fall from the ice making unit 40 and be stored in the storage compartment 13.

The cabinet 10 may include an inner case 101 forming the ice-making chamber 12. The cabinet 10 may further include an outer case 110 disposed outside the inner case 101.

Although not shown, an insulating material may be provided between the inner case 101 and the outer case 100.

The inner case 101 may additionally form the storage compartment 13.

The ice-making chamber 12 may be formed on one side of the inner case 101.

The ice making unit 40 may be located close to the rear wall 101a of the inner case 101. When the ice making unit 40 is located close to the rear wall 101a of the inner case 101, the usability of the storage compartment 13 can be increased.

To facilitate the user's access to the storage compartment 13, ice produced in the ice making unit 40 may fall in a direction closer to the door 20.

The cabinet 10 may further include a machine room 18 divided from the storage room 13. For example, the machine room 18 may be located on one side of the storage room 13. For example, one side may be the lower side.

Although not limited, a portion of the storage room 13 may be located between the ice making room 12 and the machine room 18. The volume of the storage room 13 may be larger than the volume of the ice-making room 12 and the volume of the machine room 18.

The machine room 18 may be placed outside the inner case 101.

The inner case 101 may include a bottom wall 104 that forms the bottom of the storage compartment 13. The machine room 18 may be located on one side of the bottom wall 104.

For example, the machine room 18 may be located on one side of the bottom wall 104.

The bottom wall 104 may be provided with a drain hole 105 for discharging water.

Part of the cooling unit may be located in the machine room 18. For example, the cooling unit may be a refrigerant cycle for circulating refrigerant.

The cooling unit may include one or more of a compressor 183, a condenser 184, an expander 186, and a cooler 50. The cooler 50 may be an evaporator through which refrigerant flows.

In this embodiment, the flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant cycle may be controlled by the valve 188. The refrigerant cycle may include a bypass pipe 187 for bypassing the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 183 to the inlet side of the cooler 50. The valve 188 may be provided in the bypass pipe 187.

When the valve 188 is turned off, the refrigerant compressed in the compressor 183 can flow directly to the condenser 184. When the valve 188 is turned on, some or all of the refrigerant compressed in the compressor 183 may be bypassed through the bypass pipe 187 and flow directly into the cooler 50. Although not limited, the refrigerant from the compressor 183 may flow to the evaporator during the moving process.

The refrigerant flowing through the cooler 50 may flow through the accumulator 189 and then into the compressor 183.

The compressor 183 and the condenser 184 may be located in the machine room 18. The machine room 18 may be equipped with a condenser fan 185 to allow air to pass through the condenser 184. The condenser fan 185 may be disposed between the condenser 184 and the compressor 183, for example.

A front grill 180 in which an air hole 182 is formed may be provided on the front of the cabinet 10. A plurality of air holes 182 may be formed in the front grill 180. The front grill 180 may be located on one side of the front opening 102. When the door 20 closes the front opening 102, the door 20 may cover a portion of the front grill 180.

The cooler 50 may include

refrigerant pipes

510 and 520 through which refrigerant flows. At least a portion of the cooler 50 may be located in the ice-making chamber 12 .

At least a portion of the cooler 50 may be in contact with the ice making unit 40 . That is, the water supplied to the ice-making unit 40 may be phase-changed into ice by the low-temperature refrigerant flowing through the cooler 50. Alternatively, the cooler 50 may be located adjacent to the ice making unit 40.

A method in which the cooler 50 directly contacts the ice making unit 40 to generate ice may be referred to as a direct cooling method.

As another example, air that has exchanged heat with the cooler 50 is supplied to the ice-making unit 40, and the water in the ice-making unit 40 can be phase-changed into ice by the cooling air. The method of creating ice by supplying cooling air can be called an indirect cooling method or an air cooling method. In the case of the indirect cooling method, it is possible that the cooler 50 is not located in the ice-making chamber 12. However, additionally, a guide duct that guides the cooling air heat-exchanged with the cooler 50 to the ice-making chamber 12 may be provided.

In this embodiment, the ice making unit 40 may produce a single type of ice or at least two different types of ice.

Hereinafter, it will be described as an example that the ice making unit 40 produces at least two different types of ice.

The ice making unit 40 may include a first tray unit 410 for forming a first type of first ice (I1). The ice making unit 40 may further include a second tray unit 450 for forming a second type of ice (I2) different from the first type.

The first ice (I1) and the second ice (I2) may differ in one or more of shape, size, transparency, etc.

Hereinafter, the first ice (I1) is polygonal ice, and the second ice (I2) is spherical ice.

The storage compartment may include a first storage space 132. The storage compartment may further include a second storage space 134.

Ice generated in the first tray unit 410 may be stored in the first storage space 132. Ice generated in the second tray unit 450 may be stored in the second storage space 134.

Although not limited, the second storage space 134 may be defined by the ice bin 14. That is, the internal space of the ice bin 14 may serve as the second storage space 134. The ice bin 14 may be fixed or detachably coupled to the inner case 101.

The ice bin 14 may also be referred to as a partition member that divides the storage compartment 13 into the first storage space 132 and the second storage space 134.

The volume of the first storage space 132 may be larger than the volume of the second storage space 134. Although not limited, the size of the first ice (I1) stored in the first storage space (132) may be smaller than the size of the second ice (I2) stored in the second storage space (134).

The front of the ice bin 14 may be arranged to be spaced apart from the rear of the front opening 102 . The bottom surface of the ice bin 14 may be spaced apart from the bottom wall 104 of the storage compartment 13.

Accordingly, the first ice (I1) may be located on one side of the ice bin (14). The first ice (I1) may also be located on the other side of the ice bin (14). The first ice I1 stored in the first storage space 132 may surround the ice bin 14.

The bottom wall 104 of the storage compartment 13 may form the floor of the second storage space 134.

The bottom wall 104 of the storage compartment 13 may be positioned lower than one end 102a of the front opening 102. The bottom surface of the ice bin 14 may be positioned higher than the end 102a of the front opening 102.

The ice bin 14 may be located adjacent to one side (left side in the drawing) of the left and right sides of the inner case 101. The second tray unit 450 may be located adjacent to one side. Accordingly, ice separated from the second tray unit 450 may be stored in the second storage space 134 of the ice bin 14. Ice separated from the first tray unit 410 may be stored in the first storage space 132 outside the second storage space 134.

When the amount of first ice stored in the first storage space 132 increases, the first ice is prevented from being unintentionally discharged through the front opening 102 when the door 20 is opened. , the cabinet 10 may further include the opening cover 16. The opening cover 16 may be rotatably disposed on the inner case 101. The opening cover 16 may cover one side of the front opening 102.

The opening cover 16 can be accommodated inside the storage compartment 13 when the door 20 is closed. When the door 20 is opened, the other end of the opening cover 16 may be rotated so that the other end protrudes to the outside of the storage compartment 13.

The opening cover 16 may be elastically supported by, for example, an elastic member (not shown). When the door 20 is opened, the opening cover 16 can be rotated by the elastic member.

The opening cover 16 may be formed in a convex shape toward the door 20 . Accordingly, although not limited, the first ice may be filled in the first storage space 132 up to the end 16a of the opening cover 16.

When the opening cover 16 is rotated, a portion of the first ice is drawn out of the storage compartment 13 while being located within the convex portion of the opening cover 16, so that the user can easily collect the first ice. There are advantages that can be acquired.

Of course, it is also possible to omit the opening cover 16 by varying the height of the lower end 102a of the front opening 102.

The cabinet 10 may further include a guide 70 that guides the ice separated from the ice making unit 40 to the storage compartment 13 .

The guide 70 may be arranged to be spaced apart from one side of the ice making unit 40 . The guide 70 may guide the first ice I1 separated from the first tray unit 410. The guide 70 may guide the second ice I2 separated from the second tray unit 450.

For example, the guide 70 may include a first guide 710. The guide 70 may further include a second guide 730.

The first ice I1 separated from the first tray unit 410 may fall onto the first guide 710. The first ice (I1) may be moved to the first storage space (132) by the first guide (710).

The second ice I2 separated from the second tray unit 450 may fall onto the second guide 730. The second ice I2 may be moved to the second storage space 134 by the second guide 730.

One end of the ice bin 14 may be positioned adjacent to one end of the second guide 730 so that the second ice I2 is moved to the second storage space 134.

The ice making device 1 may further include a partition plate 80 to prevent the first ice and the second ice falling on the guide 70 from mixing. The partition plate 80 extends in the vertical direction and may be coupled to the guide 70 or the ice making unit 40.

Figure 6 is a diagram showing a water supply path in the ice making device according to this embodiment, and Figures 7 and 8 are diagrams showing water being supplied to the ice making unit.

Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8 , the ice making device 1 may include a water supply passage for guiding water supplied from the water supply source 302 to the ice making unit 40 .

The water supply flow path may include a first flow path 303 connected to the water supply source 302. A water supply valve 304 may be provided in the first flow passage 303. By operating the water supply valve 304, the supply of water from the water supply source 302 to the ice maker 1 can be controlled. The supply flow rate when water is supplied to the ice maker 1 can be controlled by operating the water supply valve 304.

The water supply passage may further include a second passage 305 connected to the water supply valve 304. The second flow path 305 may be connected to the filter 306. The filter 306 may be located in the machine room 18, for example.

The water supply passage may further include a third passage 308 that guides the water that has passed through the filter 306.

The ice making device 1 may further include a water supply mechanism 320. The water supply mechanism 320 may be connected to the third flow path 308.

The water supply mechanism 320 may supply water to the ice making unit 40 during the water supply process.

The ice making device 1 may further include a water supply unit 330. The water supply unit 330 may supply water to the ice making unit 40 during the ice making process. The water supply unit 330 may store water supplied from the water supply mechanism 320 and supply it to the ice making unit 40 .

In this embodiment, the water supply mechanism 320 may be referred to as a first water supply unit. The water supply unit 330 may be referred to as a second water supply unit.

The water supply mechanism 320 may be located on one side of the ice making unit 40. Water supplied from the water supply mechanism 320 may fall into the ice making unit 40.

The water supply unit 330 may be located on the other side of the ice making unit 40.

The water supply unit 330 may be spaced apart from the water supply mechanism 320. The water supply unit 330 may store water supplied from the water supply mechanism 320 and supply it to the ice making unit 40 .

6 to 8, the dotted line shows the flow of water supplied from the water supply mechanism 320, and the solid line shows the flow of water supplied from the water supply unit 330.

The water supply unit 330 may include a water storage unit 350 in which water is stored. The ice making unit 40 may include one or more passage holes 426 through which water passes. The water supplied from the water supply mechanism 320 and dropped toward the ice-making unit 40 may be stored in the water storage unit 350 after passing through the passage hole 426. The guide 70 may be provided with a plurality of through holes through which water passing through the ice making unit 40 passes.

When the water supply valve 304 is turned on, the water supplied from the water supply mechanism 320 falls into the ice-making unit 40, passes through the ice-making unit 40, and is stored in the water storage unit 350. You can.

The water storage unit 350 may be provided with a water level detection unit 356 that detects the water level. When the water level of the water storage unit 350 detected by the water level detection unit 356 reaches the reference water level, the water supply valve 304 may be turned off.

In this specification, the process from when the water supply valve 304 is turned on to when the water supply valve 304 is turned off may be referred to as a water supply process. For example, the water supply valve 304 may be turned off when the water level of the water storage unit 350 detected by the water level detection unit 356 reaches the reference water level.

The water supply unit 330 may further include water pumps 360 and 362 for pumping water stored in the water storage unit 350.

In this embodiment, in the ice-making process, the water stored in the water storage unit 350 may be pumped by the water pumps 360 and 362 and supplied to the ice-making unit 40.

The water pumps 360 and 362 may include a first pump 360. The water pumps 360 and 362 may further include a second pump 362. When the first pump 360 operates, water may be supplied to the first tray unit 410. When the second pump 362 operates, water may be supplied to the second tray unit 450.

The first pump 360 and the second pump 362 may operate independently. The pumping capacities of the first pump 360 and the second pump 362 may be the same or different.

The water supply unit 330 may further include

first connection pipes

352 and 354 connecting each of the

pumps

360 and 362 and the water storage unit 350.

The

first connection pipes

352 and 354 may be connected to the water storage unit 350 at the same or similar height to the bottom of the water storage unit 350.

The water supply unit 330 may further include a first water supply unit 380 for supplying water pumped by the first pump 360 to the first tray unit 410.

The water supply unit 330 may further include a second water supply unit 382 for supplying water pumped by the second pump 362 to the second tray unit 450.

The first water supply unit 380 may supply water to the first tray unit 410 from one side of the first tray unit 410.

The second water supply unit 382 may supply water to the second tray unit 450 from one side of the second tray unit 450.

The first water supply unit 380 and the second water supply unit 382 may be located on one side of the guide 70.

The water supply unit 330 may further include

second connection pipes

370 and 372 connecting each of the

pumps

360 and 362 and each of the

water supply units

380 and 382.

The water supplied from the first water supply unit 380 to the first tray unit 410 can be used to create ice. The water that falls again from the first tray unit 410 may be stored in the water storage unit 350 after passing through the guide 70.

The water supplied from the second water supply unit 382 to the second tray unit 450 can be used to create ice. The water that falls again from the second tray unit 450 may be stored in the water storage unit 350 after passing through the guide 70.

A drain pipe 360 may be connected to the water storage unit 350. The drain pipe 360 may extend through the drain hole 105 into the machine room 18. The machine room 18 may be provided with a drain tube 362 connected to the drain tube 360. The drain tube 362 can ultimately discharge water to the outside of the ice making device 1.

Hereinafter, the ice making unit 40 will be described in detail.

Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of the first tray unit and the second tray unit in this embodiment, and Figures 10 and 11 are perspective views showing the ice making unit and cooler in this embodiment. FIG. 12 is a control block diagram of the ice making device of this embodiment, and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the process in which water is supplied from the water supply unit to the ice making unit during the ice making process.

Referring to FIGS. 9 to 13 , the cooler 50 may contact the ice making unit 40. For example, the cooler 50 may be located on one side of the ice making unit 40. The one side is not limited, but may be the upper side.

The ice making unit 40 may include a first tray unit 410 and a second tray unit 450 as described above.

The first tray unit 410 and the second tray unit 450 may be arranged in a horizontal direction. It is also possible for the first tray unit 410 and the second tray unit 450 to be arranged in the vertical direction. The first tray unit 410 and the second tray unit 450 may be installed in the cabinet 10 while being connected to each other. That is, the first tray unit 410 and the second tray unit 450 can be modularized.

As another example, the first tray unit 410 and the second tray unit 450 may be installed in the cabinet 10 in a separated state. The first tray unit 410 and the second tray unit 450 may be positioned close to each other in the horizontal direction.

The first tray unit 410 may include a first ice making cell 440.

In this embodiment, the ice-making cell refers to a space where ice is generated. One ice can be created in one ice-making cell.

The first tray unit 410 may include a first tray. The first tray may include a first tray body 420 and a second tray body 430 coupled to the first tray body 420.

For example, the first tray may form a plurality of first ice-making cells 440. A plurality of second tray bodies 430 may be coupled to the first tray body 420.

The first ice making cell 440 may be defined by one cell or by a plurality of cells. For example, the first ice-making cell 440 may include a first one-side cell 442 and a first other-side cell 441. Although not limited, the first one-side cell may be either a first lower cell or a first upper cell. The first other cell may be another one of the first lower cell and the first upper cell. The first one-side cell may be either a first left cell or a first right cell. The first other cell may be another one of the first left cell and the first right cell. Although not limited, it is possible for the terms of the first one-side cell and the first other-side cell to be opposite.

The first one-side cell 442 may be formed by the second tray body 430. The first other side cell 441 may be formed by the first tray body 420.

For example, the first tray body 420 may form a plurality of first other side cells 441. Each of the plurality of second tray bodies 430 may form a first one-side cell 442.

Accordingly, when the plurality of second tray bodies 430 are coupled to a single first tray body 420, a plurality of first ice making cells 440 can be formed.

The first tray body 420 may include a first opening 423. The first opening 423 communicates with the first other cell 441.

The number of first openings 423 is the same as the number of first ice making cells 440.

The first one side cell 442 may form one side of the first ice, and the first other side cell 441 may form the other side of the first ice.

After the second tray body 430 is coupled to the first tray body 430, separation of the second tray body 430 from the first tray body 430 may be restricted.

Water supplied from the first water supply unit 380 may pass through the first opening 423 and be supplied to the first ice making cell 440. Accordingly, the first opening 423 may serve as a water supply opening during the ice-making process.

A portion of the water supplied to the first ice making cell 440 may fall to the lower part of the first tray unit 410 through the first opening 423. Accordingly, the first opening 423 may serve as a water discharge opening during the ice-making process.

Ice generated in the first ice-making cell 440 may be separated from the first tray unit 410 through the first opening 423 during the ice-moving process. Accordingly, the first opening 423 may serve as an ice discharge opening during the moving process.

Each of the first one-side cell 442 and the first other side cell 441 may be formed, for example, in a hexahedral shape. The volume of the first one-side cell 442 and the volume of the first other cell 441 may be the same or different.

After the first ice is generated in the first ice making cell 440, the horizontal perimeter (or horizontal cross-sectional area) of the first other side cell 441 so that the ice can be discharged through the first opening 423. may be larger than the horizontal perimeter (or horizontal cross-sectional area) of the first one-side cell 442.

That is, during the water supply process, ice-making process, or moving process, the second tray body 430 and the first tray body 430 are maintained in a coupled state, so that the shape of the first ice-making cell 440 can be maintained. .

The cooler 50 may be in contact with the second tray body 430 so that ice is first created in the first one-side cell 442.

The first tray body 430 may include passage holes 421 and 425 for water to pass through.

The second tray unit 450 may further include a second tray forming a second ice-making cell 451.

The second tray may be defined by one tray or by multiple trays. For example, the second tray may include one side tray 460 and the other side tray 470. Although not limited, the one side tray may be an upper tray, a left tray, or a first tray portion. The other tray 470 may be a lower tray, a right tray, or a second tray. It is also possible that the terms for one tray 460 and the other tray 470 are opposite to each other.

The second ice making cell 451 may be defined by one cell or by a plurality of cells. For example, the second ice-making cell 451 may include a second one-side cell 462 and a second other-side cell 472.

The one side tray 460 may form the second one side cell 462. The other side tray 470 may form the second other side cell 472. Each of the second one-side cell 462 and the second other side cell 272 may be formed in a hemispherical shape, for example.

For example, the second tray may form a plurality of second ice-making cells 451. Accordingly, the one side tray 460 can form a plurality of second one side cells 462. The other side tray 470 may form a plurality of second side cells 472.

A portion of the first ice making cell 440 may be located at the same height as the second ice making cell 451. For example, at least a portion of the first ice making cell 440 may be arranged to overlap the second ice making cell 451 in the horizontal direction.

The second ice making cell 451 may be disposed between the rotation center C1 of the other tray 470 and the first ice making cell 440.

The height of one end of the first ice making cell 440 and one end of the second ice making cell 451 may be different. For example, one end of the first ice making cell 440 may be positioned lower than one end of the second ice making cell 451.

The height of the other end of the first ice making cell 440 and the other end of the second ice making cell 451 may be different. For example, the other end of the first ice making cell 440 may be positioned higher than the other end of the second ice making cell 451.

The contact surface of the one tray 460 and the other tray 470 may have a different height from the joining portion of the second tray body 420 and the first tray body 430. For example, the contact surface of the one tray 460 and the other tray 470 may be positioned higher than the joint portion of the second tray body 420 and the first tray body 430.

The height of the first ice making cell 440 and the height of the second ice making cell 451 may be different. For example, the height of the first ice making cell 440 may be smaller than the height of the second ice making cell 451.

The maximum horizontal perimeter of the first ice making cell 440 may be different from the maximum horizontal perimeter of the second ice making cell 451. For example, the maximum horizontal perimeter of the first ice making cell 440 may be smaller than the maximum horizontal perimeter of the second ice making cell 451.

The number of first ice making cells 440 may be different from the number of second ice making cells 451. For example, the number of first ice making cells 440 may be greater than the number of second ice making cells 451.

The volume of the first ice making cell 440 may be different from the volume of the second ice making cell 451. The volume of the first ice making cell 440 may be smaller than the volume of the second ice making cell 451.

The sum of the volumes of the plurality of first ice-making chambers 440 may be different from the sum of the volumes of the plurality of second ice-making cells 451. For example, the sum of the volumes of the plurality of first ice-making chambers 440 may be greater than the sum of the volumes of the plurality of second ice-making cells 451.

The other tray 470 may include a second opening 473.

A water supply process and/or an ice making process may be performed while the one tray 460 and the other tray 470 are in contact with each other to form the second ice making cell 451.

Water supplied from the second water supply unit 382 may pass through the second opening 473 and be supplied to the second ice making cell 451. Accordingly, the second opening 473 may serve as a water supply opening during the ice-making process.

Some of the water supplied to the second ice making cell 451 may fall to the lower part of the second tray unit 450 through the second opening 473. Accordingly, the second opening 473 may serve as a water discharge opening during the ice-making process.

In the moving process, the other tray 470 may be moved relative to the one tray 460.

The first opening 423 and the second opening 473 may be located at different heights. For example, the first opening 423 may be located higher than the second opening 473.

The second tray unit 450 may further include a case 452 supporting the one side tray 460.

A portion of the one side tray 460 may penetrate the case 452 from one side. Another part of the one side tray 460 may be seated in the case 452 .

A driving unit 690 for moving the other tray 470 may be installed in the case 452.

The case 452 may include a peripheral portion 453. The peripheral portion 453 may be provided with a seating end 454. The seating end 454 may be seated on the first tray unit 410. For example, the seating end 454 may be seated on the second tray body 430.

The case 452 may be formed with a passage hole 456 for water to pass through.

The second tray unit 450 may further include a supporter 480 that supports the other tray 470.

With the other tray 470 seated on the supporter 480, the supporter 480 and the other tray 470 may be moved together. For example, the supporter 480 may be movably connected to the one side tray 460.

The supporter 480 may include a supporter opening 482a through which water passes. The supporter opening 482a may be aligned with the second opening 473.

The diameter of the supporter opening 482a may be larger than the diameter of the second opening 473.

The second tray unit 450 may further include a pusher 490 for separating ice from the other tray 470 during the moving process. The pusher 490 may be installed in the case 452, for example.

The pusher 490 may include a pushing bar 492. When the other tray 470 and the supporter 480 move during the moving process, the pushing bar 492 can press the other tray 470 by penetrating the supporter opening 482a of the supporter 480. . When the other tray 470 is pressed by the pushing bar 492, the shape of the other tray 470 is deformed and the second ice may be separated from the other tray 470. To enable deformation of the other tray 470, the other tray 470 may be formed of a non-metallic material. In terms of ease of deformation, the other tray 470 may be formed of a flexible material.

Meanwhile, the cooler 50 may include a first refrigerant pipe 510 that is in contact with the first tray unit 410 or located adjacent to the first tray unit 410.

The cooler 50 may further include a second refrigerant pipe 520 located adjacent to or in contact with the second tray unit 450.

The first refrigerant pipe 510 and the second refrigerant pipe 520 may be connected in series or in parallel. Hereinafter, an example in which the first refrigerant pipe 510 and the second refrigerant pipe 520 are connected in series will be described.

The first refrigerant pipe 510 may include the first inlet pipe 511. The first inlet pipe 511 may be located on one side of the first tray body 430. The first inlet pipe 511 may extend at a position adjacent to the driving unit 690. The first inlet pipe 511 may extend from one side of the driving unit 690. That is, the first inlet pipe 511 may extend in the space between the driving unit 690 and the rear wall 101a of the inner case 101.

The first refrigerant pipe 510 may further include a first bent pipe 512 extending from the first inlet pipe 511 to one side.

The first coolant pipe 510 may further include a first cooling pipe 513 extending from the first bent pipe 512.

The first cooling pipe 513 may be in contact with the second tray body 430. Accordingly, the second tray body 430 can be cooled by the refrigerant flowing through the first cooling pipe 513.

The first cooling pipe 513 may include a plurality of straight portions 513a. The first cooling pipe 513 may include a curved connecting portion 513b connecting ends of two adjacent straight portions 513a.

The first inlet pipe 511 may be located adjacent to the boundary between the first tray unit 410 and the second tray unit 450. The first cooling pipe 513 may extend from the boundary portion in a direction away from the second tray unit 450.

One straight portion may contact the upper surfaces of the plurality of second tray bodies 430.

The plurality of straight portions 513a may be arranged at substantially the same height.

The first coolant pipe 510 may further include a first connection pipe 514 extending from an end of the first cooling pipe 513. The first connection pipe 514 may extend to be lower in height than the first cooling pipe 513.

The first refrigerant pipe 510 may further include a second cooling pipe 515 connected to the first connection pipe 514. The second cooling pipe 515 may be located lower than the first cooling pipe 513.

The second cooling pipe 515 may contact the side of the upper tray body 420.

The second cooling pipe 515 may include a plurality of

straight portions

515a and 515b. The second cooling pipe 515 may include a curved connecting portion 515c connecting two adjacent

straight portions

515a and 515b.

The plurality of upper tray bodies 530 may be arranged in a plurality of columns and rows.

Among the plurality of

straight parts

515a and 515b, some straight parts 515a may contact one side of the second tray body 430 in one row. Among the plurality of

straight parts

515a and 515b, some other straight parts 515b may contact the second tray bodies 430 of two adjacent rows, respectively.

For example, some of the straight portions 515a may contact the first side of the second tray body in the first row. For example, the other straight portions 515b may contact the second side of the second tray body in the first row and the first side of the upper tray body in the second row.

The first refrigerant pipe 510 may further include a first discharge pipe 516. The first discharge pipe 516 may extend from the end of the second cooling pipe 515. The first discharge pipe 516 may extend toward the second tray unit 450. The height of the first discharge pipe 516 may be variable in the direction in which it extends.

The second refrigerant pipe 520 may receive refrigerant from the first discharge pipe 516. The second refrigerant pipe 520 may be a pipe formed integrally with the first discharge pipe 516 or may be a pipe combined with the second discharge pipe 516.

The second refrigerant pipe 520 may include a second inlet pipe 522 connected to the first discharge pipe 516. The second inlet pipe 522 may be located on the opposite side of the driving unit 690 in the second tray unit 450.

The second refrigerant pipe 520 may further include a third cooling pipe 523. The third cooling pipe 523 may extend from the second inlet pipe 522.

A portion of the second refrigerant pipe 520 (for example, the third cooling pipe 523) may be located higher than the second ice-making cell 451.

The third cooling pipe 523 may contact the one side tray 460. Accordingly, the one side tray 460 can be cooled by the refrigerant flowing through the third cooling pipe 523. For example, the third cooling pipe 523 may contact the upper surface of the one side tray 460.

The water supply mechanism 320 may be positioned higher than the third cooling pipe 523.

The third cooling pipe 523 may include a plurality of straight portions 523a. The third cooling pipe 523 may further include a curved connecting portion 523b connecting two adjacent straight portions 523a.

One or more of the plurality of straight portions 523a may extend in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the plurality of second ice making cells 451. The plurality of straight portions 523a may overlap the second ice making cell 451 in the first direction. Some of the plurality of straight portions 523a may overlap the second opening 473 in the first direction. The first direction may be an arrangement direction of one side cell and the other side cell forming the second ice making cell 451.

The third cooling pipe 523 may be located higher than the first cooling pipe 513. The third cooling pipe 523 may be located higher than the second cooling pipe 515.

The second coolant pipe 520 may further include a second bent pipe 524 extending from the end of the third cooling pipe 523. A portion of the second bent pipe 524 may extend from the end of the third cooling pipe 523 along one side of the driving unit 690.

Another part of the second bent pipe 524 may extend in the other direction.

The second refrigerant pipe 520 may further include a second discharge pipe 525 connected to the second bent pipe 524. At least a portion of the second discharge pipe 525 may extend parallel to the first inlet pipe 511. The second discharge pipe 525 may be located behind the driving unit 690. That is, the second discharge pipe 525 may extend in the space between the driving unit 690 and the rear wall 101a of the inner case 101.

At least a portion of the second discharge pipe 525 may be arranged in the direction (first direction) in which the first inlet pipe 511, the second one side cell, and the second other side cell are arranged.

At least a portion of the second discharge pipe 525 may overlap the first inlet pipe 511 in the first direction. At least a portion of the second discharge pipe 525 may be located on one side of the first inlet pipe 511.

In this embodiment, the water supply mechanism 320 may supply water to the ice making unit 40 during the water supply process. The water supply mechanism 320 may supply water to the ice-making unit 40 during the moving process.

When ice making is completed in the ice making unit 40, the ice making unit 40 may be maintained at a temperature below zero. The water supply mechanism 320 may supply water supplied from an external water supply source 302 to the ice making unit 40 . Since the water supplied from the external water supply source 302 is at room temperature or at a temperature similar to room temperature, water is supplied from the water supply device 320 to the ice making unit 40 during the ice-making process in order to increase the temperature of the ice making unit 40. can be supplied.

Meanwhile, the ice making device 1 may further include a controller 190. The controller 190 may control the water supply valve 304 during the water supply process.

The controller 190 can control the cooling unit during the ice making process. For example, the controller 190 may vary the cooling power of the cooling unit.

Although not limited, the controller 190 may variably control the output of one or more of the compressor 183 and the condenser fan 185 (or fan driver).

For example, the compressor 183 may be an inverter compressor capable of variable frequency.

The controller 190 may control the first pump 360 and/or the second pump 362 during the ice making process. The controller 190 can independently control the first pump 360 and the second pump 362.

The controller 190 can control the moving unit during the moving process. For example, the moving unit may include one or more of the water supply mechanism 320 and the

refrigerant pipes

510 and 520. The controller 190 may control water discharge from the water supply mechanism 320 by controlling the water supply valve 304 during the moving process. The controller 190 may control the valve 188 to allow high-temperature refrigerant to flow into the

refrigerant pipes

510 and 520 during the moving process.

The ice making device 1 may further include a first temperature sensor 191 for detecting the temperature of the first ice making cell 440 or the temperature around the first ice making cell 440.

The ice making device 1 may further include a second temperature sensor 192 for detecting the temperature of the second ice making cell 451 or the temperature around the second ice making cell 451.

The controller 190 may determine whether ice making in the first tray unit 410 is complete based on the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 191.

The controller 190 may determine whether ice making in the second tray unit 450 is complete based on the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor 192.

Hereinafter, a series of processes by which ice is created in an ice-making unit will be described.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining a control method of an ice making device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 15 is a table showing the change in cooling power of the cooling unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 15 , the process of generating ice in the ice making device 1 will be described.

The process for generating ice may include a water supply process (S1). The process for generating ice may further include an ice-making process (S2 to S9). The process for generating ice may further include a moving process (S10).

When the water supply process starts (S1), the water supply valve 304 is turned on and water supplied from the external water supply source 302 flows along the water supply passage. The water flowing along the water supply passage is supplied to the ice-making unit 40 through the water supply mechanism 320.

The water supplied to the ice making unit 40 falls to the lower side of the ice making unit 40 and is stored in the water storage unit 350. When the level of water stored in the water storage unit 350 reaches the reference level, the water supply valve 304 is turned off and the water supply process is completed.

After the water supply process is completed, the ice making process begins.

In the ice-making process, the cooling unit operates and low-temperature refrigerant may flow into the cooler 50. For example, the compressor 183 may be turned on (S2). Of course, the condenser fan 185 can also be turned on. Alternatively, the compressor 183 and the condenser fan 185 may be turned on before the ice making process and remain turned on during the ice making process. The valve 188 can be turned off.

In the ice-making process, water may be supplied to the ice-making unit 40 by the water supply unit 330.

The controller 190 can turn on the

pumps

360 and 362 simultaneously or sequentially.

The cooling unit may operate with a first cooling power at the initial stage of operation (S3). For example, the compressor 183 may operate at a first frequency (A1, B1, C1).

For example, when the first pump 360 operates, water may be supplied to the first tray unit 410 through the first water supply unit 380.

The first water supply unit 380 may include a first water supply nozzle 381. The second water supply unit 382 may include a second water supply nozzle 383.

The first water nozzle 381 may be located on one side of the first tray unit 410. Water sprayed from the first water nozzle 381 may be supplied to the first ice-making cell 440 of the first tray unit 410.

Water sprayed from the first water nozzle 381 may be supplied to the first ice making cell 440 through the first opening 423 of the first tray body 430.

The water supplied to the first ice-making cell 440 flows toward one surface of the second tray body 430. Some of the water in the first ice-making cell 440 may be frozen by the first refrigerant pipe 510. The unfrozen water falls downward again through the first opening 423. The water that falls downward through the first opening 423 is stored in the water storage unit 350 again.

During the ice-making process, ice is generated on one side of the first ice-making cell 440 and grows on the other side. As water is sprayed into the first ice-making cell 440, a portion of the water is frozen. In the process of spraying the water into the second tray body 430 or ice generated in the second tray body 430, air bubbles in the water are formed. may be released from the water.

When the second pump 362 operates, water may be supplied to the second tray unit 450 through the second water supply unit 382.

The second water nozzle 383 may be located on one side of the second tray unit 450. Water sprayed from the second water nozzle 383 may be supplied to the second ice making cell 451 of the second tray unit 450.

The water sprayed from the second water nozzle 383 flows into the second ice-making cell 451 through the supporter opening 482a of the lower supporter 480 and the second opening 473 of the other tray 470. ) can be supplied.

The water supplied to the second ice making cell 451 flows toward the inner upper surface of the one side tray 460. Some of the water in the second ice-making cell 451 may be frozen by the second refrigerant pipe 520. The unfrozen water falls downward again through the second opening 473. The water that falls downward through the second opening 473 is stored in the water storage unit 350 again.

The controller 190 may determine whether the elapsed time after the

pumps

360 and 362 are turned on or the cooling unit operates with the first cooling power is greater than the first reference time t1 (S4).

As a result of the determination in step S4, if it is determined that the elapsed time is greater than the first reference time (t1), the controller 190 may control the cooling unit to operate with the second cooling power (S5). . The second cooling force is greater than the first cooling force. For example, the compressor 183 may operate at a second frequency (A2, B2, C2) that is greater than the first frequency.

The controller 190 may determine whether the elapsed time after the cooling power of the cooling unit is changed to the second cooling power is greater than the second reference time (t2) (S6).

As a result of the determination in step S6, if it is determined that the elapsed time is greater than the second reference time (t2), the controller 190 may control the cooling unit to operate with the third cooling power (S7 ). The third cooling force is greater than the second cooling force. For example, the compressor 183 may operate at a third frequency (A3, B3, C3) that is greater than the second frequency.

At this time, the difference between the first cold power and the second cold power may be the same as or different from the difference between the second cold power and the third cold power.

While the ice making process is being performed, the controller 190 may determine whether ice making is completed in the tray unit.

For example, if the controller 190 determines that the elapsed time after the cooling unit is changed to the third cooling power is greater than the third reference time t3 (S8), it may determine that ice making is complete.

As a result of the determination in step S8, if it is determined that the elapsed time is greater than the third reference time t3 (S8), the controller 190 may turn off the pumps 360 and 362 (S9).

As another example, to determine the completion of ice making, the controller 190 may determine whether the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is lower than the end reference temperature. If the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is determined to be lower than the end reference temperature, the controller 190 may turn off the

pumps

360 and 362.

When the ice-making process is completed, the controller 190 can perform the ice-making process (S10).

When the moving process begins, the valve 188 may be turned on. When the valve 188 is turned on, high-temperature refrigerant compressed in the compressor 183 may flow into the cooler 50. The high-temperature refrigerant flowing into the cooler 50 may exchange heat with the ice-making unit 40. When high-temperature refrigerant flows into the cooler 50, heat may be transferred to the ice-making unit 40.

The first ice I1 may be separated from the first tray unit 410 by the heat transferred to the ice making unit 40. When the first ice (I1) is separated from the first tray unit (410), the first ice (I1) may fall onto the guide (70). The first ice I1 that fell to the guide 70 may be stored in the first storage space 132.

The second ice I2 may be separated from at least the surface of the one tray 460 by the heat transferred to the ice making unit 40.

As time passes, or when the temperature of each tray unit reaches a set temperature, the flow of high-temperature refrigerant to the cooler 50 may be blocked.

Next, the driving unit 690 may operate to separate the second ice I2 from the second tray unit 450. By operating the driving unit 690, the other tray 470 can be moved in the forward direction (clockwise with respect to FIG. 13).

When the second ice (I2) is separated from the one tray 460 and the other tray 470 by the high-temperature refrigerant flowing into the cooler 50, the second ice (I2) is The other tray 470 may be moved while being supported on the other tray 470 . In this case, when the other tray 470 moves at an angle of approximately 90 degrees, the second ice I2 may fall from the other tray 470.

On the other hand, when the second ice (I2) has been separated from the one tray 460 but has not yet been separated from the other tray 470 by the high-temperature refrigerant flowing into the cooler 50, the second ice I2 is separated from the other tray 470. As the pusher 490 presses the lower tray 480 in the process of moving the ice 470 by the moving angle, the second ice I2 may be separated from the other tray 470 and fall.

When the second ice I2 is separated from the second tray unit 450, the second ice I2 may fall onto the guide 70. The second ice I2 that fell to the guide 70 may be stored in the second storage space 134.

After the other side tray 470 is moved in the forward direction, the other side tray 470 is moved in the reverse direction (counterclockwise in the drawing) by the driving unit 690 to contact the one side tray 460. You can.

Hereinafter, the technical significance of changing the cooling power of the cooling unit during the ice-making process will be described in detail.

In the present invention, the ice may be generated at one end of the ice-making cell and grow to the other side. Exemplarily, one end may be the uppermost side, and the other side may be the lower side.

When ice grows, if the temperature difference between the water supplied to the ice-making cell and the cold supplied to the ice-making cell is large, there is a disadvantage in that cracks occur in the ice during the ice creation process. Cracks increase the opacity of ice.

In this embodiment, the initial cooling power of the cooling unit at the beginning of ice making is relatively low to reduce the occurrence of cracks during the ice creation process.

As the ice-making process progresses, ice grows. As the thickness of the ice increases, the ice itself acts as thermal resistance, reducing heat conduction efficiency.

If the cooling power of the cooling unit is maintained at the initial cooling power, the occurrence of cracks can be reduced, but the ice-making speed may be reduced. In addition, the cooler is located on one side of the ice-making unit, and the ice grows on the other side, so when the cooling power of the cooling unit is maintained at the initial cooling power, as the ice grows, the distance between the cooler and the part of the ice that contacts water increases. Ice making speed may be reduced.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the cooling power of the cooling unit can be increased during the ice-making process so that the ice-making speed can be increased while preventing the occurrence of cracks.

That is, in the case of the present invention, the cooling power of the cooling unit can be increased step by step during the ice making process.

In the above embodiment, it has been described that the cooling power of the cooling unit is varied twice, but it should be noted that this is an example and there is no limit to the number of times the cooling power of the cooling unit is varied.

According to this embodiment, by increasing the cooling power of the cooling unit during the ice-making process, the occurrence of cracks can be reduced, and thus the transparency of ice can be increased, and the ice-making speed can also be increased.

Meanwhile, the cooling power of the cooling unit may vary depending on the indoor temperature. In this specification, the indoor temperature may be the temperature of the space where the ice making device 1 is located.

The higher the indoor temperature, the greater the cooling power of the cooling unit. That is, the first cooling power of the cooling unit when the indoor temperature is greater than the first indoor temperature (T1) may be greater than the first cooling power of the cooling unit when the indoor temperature is below the first indoor temperature (T1).

The first cooling power of the cooling unit when the indoor temperature is greater than the second indoor temperature (T2) may be greater than the first cooling power of the cooling unit when the indoor temperature is lower than the second indoor temperature (T2).

Referring to FIG. 15, when the indoor temperature is below the first indoor temperature (T1), the frequency of the compressor may be changed in the order of A1, A2, and A3. When the indoor temperature is greater than the first indoor temperature (T1) and less than the second indoor temperature (T2), the frequency of the compressor may be changed in the order of B1, B2, and B3. When the indoor temperature is greater than the second indoor temperature (T2), the frequency of the compressor may be changed in the order of C1, C2, and C3.

A2 may be the same or different from B1. B2 may be the same or different from C1. A3 may be the same or different from B2. B3 may be the same or different from C2.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining a control method of an ice making device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a table showing changes in cooling power of a cooling unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

This embodiment is the same as the first embodiment in other respects, but differs in determining the timing of variable cooling power of the cooling unit. Therefore, hereinafter, only the characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17 , when the water supply process starts (S1), the water supply valve 304 is turned on and water supplied from the external water supply source 302 flows along the water supply passage. The water flowing along the water supply passage is supplied to the ice-making unit 40 through the water supply mechanism 320.

After the water supply process is completed, the ice making process begins.

The controller 190 can turn on the

pumps

360 and 362 simultaneously or sequentially.

The first water nozzle 381 may be located on one side of the first tray unit 410. Water sprayed from the first water nozzle 381 is supplied to the first ice making cell 440 of the first tray unit 410.

When the second pump 362 operates at the first output, water may be supplied to the second tray unit 450 through the second water supply unit 382.

The controller 190 may determine whether the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is lower than the first set temperature (a) while the cooling unit is operating with the first cooling power (S11 ).

As a result of the determination in step S11, when the cooling unit is operated with the first cooling power, if the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is determined to be lower than the first set temperature, the controller 190 controls the cooling unit The cooling unit can be controlled to operate with this second cooling power (S5). The second cooling force is greater than the first cooling force.

As the ice-making process is performed, the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 may decrease. In the case of this embodiment, the timing of changing the cooling power of the cooling unit may be determined based on the change in temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192.

When the cooling unit operates with the second cooling power, the ice making speed may be increased compared to when the cooling unit operates with the first cooling power.

The controller 190 may determine whether the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is lower than the second set temperature (b) while the cooling unit is operating with the second cooling power (S12 ).

The second set temperature (b) is lower than the first set temperature (a).

As a result of the determination in step S12, if the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is determined to be lower than the second set temperature (b), the controller 190 performs the cooling so that the cooling unit operates with a third cooling power. The unit can be controlled (S7). The third cooling force is greater than the second cooling force.

For example, the controller 190 may determine whether the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is lower than the third set temperature c (S13). The third set temperature (c) is lower than the second set temperature (b).

As a result of the determination in step S13, if the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is determined to be lower than the third set temperature (c), the controller 190 may turn off the pumps 360 and 362 ( S9). That is, if the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is determined to be lower than the third set temperature c, the controller 190 may determine that ice making is complete.

Even in this embodiment, the cooling power of the cooling unit may vary depending on the room temperature.

Referring to FIG. 17, when the indoor temperature is below the first indoor temperature T1, the frequency of the compressor may be changed in the order of A1, A2, and A3. When the indoor temperature is greater than the first indoor temperature (T1) and less than the second indoor temperature (T2), the frequency of the compressor may be changed in the order of B1, B2, and B3. When the indoor temperature is greater than the second indoor temperature (T2), the frequency of the compressor may be changed in the order of C1, C2, and C3.

Figure 18 is a flowchart for explaining a control method of an ice making device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

This embodiment is the same as the first or second embodiments in other respects, but there is a difference in determining the timing of variable cooling power of the cooling unit. Therefore, hereinafter, only the characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described.

Referring to FIG. 18, when the water supply process starts (S1), the water supply valve 304 is turned on and water supplied from the external water supply source 302 flows along the water supply passage. The water flowing along the water supply passage is supplied to the ice-making unit 40 through the water supply mechanism 320.

After the water supply process is completed, the ice-making process begins.

The controller 190 can turn on the

pumps

360 and 362 simultaneously or sequentially.

The cooling unit may operate with a first cooling power at the initial stage of operation (S3). For example, the compressor 183 may operate at a first frequency.

The controller 190 determines whether the difference between the temperature of the tray and the water detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is greater than the first reference value D1 while the cooling unit is operating at the first cooling power. You can judge (S21).

In this embodiment, the temperature of the water may be set to room temperature and stored in the memory in advance, or may be stored in the memory in advance as a temperature set differently based on the room temperature. Alternatively, it is also possible to detect the temperature of the water using a separate temperature sensor.

As a result of the determination in step S21, when the cooling unit is operated with the first cooling power, if it is determined that the difference between the temperature of the tray and the temperature of the water detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is greater than the first reference value, the controller (190) may control the cooling unit so that the cooling unit operates with second cooling power (S5). The second cooling force is greater than the first cooling force.

As the ice-making process is performed, the temperature of the tray detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 may decrease. On the other hand, the temperature of the water may be constant at room temperature or may be similar to room temperature.

In the case of this embodiment, the timing of changing the cooling power of the cooling unit may be determined based on the variation of the difference value (an absolute value) between the temperature of the tray and the temperature of the water detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192.

The controller 190 determines whether the difference between the temperature of the tray and the temperature of the water detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is greater than the second reference value D2 while the cooling unit is operating with the second cooling power. can be judged (S22).

The second reference value (D2) is greater than the first reference value (D1).

As a result of the determination in step S22, if the temperature detected by the

temperature sensors

For example, the controller 190 may determine whether the difference between the temperature of the tray and the temperature of the water detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is greater than the third reference value D3 (S23). The third reference value (D3) is greater than the second reference value (D2).

As a result of the determination in step S23, if it is determined that the difference between the temperature of the tray and the temperature of the water detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is greater than the third reference value D3, the controller 190 operates the pumps 360 and 362. ) can be turned off (S9). That is, if the difference between the temperature of the tray and the temperature of the water detected by the

temperature sensors

191 and 192 is determined to be greater than the third reference value D3, the controller 190 may determine that ice making is complete.

In the third embodiment above, step S21 may be replaced with a step of determining whether the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is greater than the first reference value. The temperature of the evaporator may be sensed by a separate temperature sensor, not shown.

Step S22 may be replaced with a step of determining whether the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is greater than the second reference value. Step S23 may be replaced with a step of determining whether the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is greater than the third reference value.

During the ice making process, the temperature of the evaporator may be lowered similar to the tray temperature reduction pattern.

Meanwhile, unlike the third embodiment, the cooling power of the cooling unit may be increased, decreased, or maintained during the ice-making process, depending on the size of the first cooling power, which is the initial cooling power of the cooling unit.

For example, the cooling power of the cooling unit can be adjusted based on the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the evaporator.

The cooling unit may operate at a first predetermined cooling power. While the cooling unit is operating with the first cooling power, if the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the evaporator is greater than the first reference value, the cooling unit may be driven with a second cooling power that is smaller than the first cooling power. Cracks may occur if the difference between the temperature of the water supplied at the beginning of the ice-making process and the temperature of the evaporator is greater than the first reference value. Therefore, in order to generate cracks, the cooling power of the cooling unit may be reduced.

Alternatively, while the cooling unit is operating with the first cooling power, if the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the evaporator is less than a second reference value, the cooling unit may be driven with a third cooling power that is greater than the first cooling power. At this time, the second reference value is smaller than the first reference value.

When the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the evaporator is smaller than the second reference value, the ice-making speed may be reduced, and thus the cooling power of the cooling unit may be increased to increase the ice-making speed.

Alternatively, while the cooling unit is operating with the first cooling power, if the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the evaporator is less than the first reference value and more than the second reference value, the cooling power of the cooling unit may be maintained at the first cooling power. You can.

The predetermined first cooling power may vary according to the room temperature described above. The predetermined first cooling power may be determined based on the type of ice. That is, the first cooling power may be determined depending on the shape of the ice-making cell, the transparency of the ice, or the size of the ice.

Over time or based on a change in temperature of the tray, the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the evaporator may be compared to a first reference value or a second reference value. In other words, determination of the timing of variable cooling power of the cooling unit may be performed according to the temperature change of the tray over time.

As another example, unlike the third embodiment, the cooling power of the cooling unit may be increased, decreased, or maintained during the ice-making process, depending on the size of the first cooling power, which is the initial cooling power of the cooling unit.

For example, the cooling power of the cooling unit can be adjusted based on the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the tray.

The cooling unit may operate at a first predetermined cooling power. While the cooling unit is operating with the first cooling power, if the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the tray is greater than the first reference value, the cooling unit may be driven with a second cooling power that is smaller than the first cooling power. Cracks may occur if the difference between the temperature of the water supplied at the beginning of the ice-making process and the temperature of the tray is greater than the first reference value. Therefore, in order to generate cracks, the cooling power of the cooling unit may be reduced.

Alternatively, while the cooling unit is operating with the first cooling power, if the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the tray is less than a second reference value, the cooling unit may be driven with a third cooling power that is greater than the first cooling power. At this time, the second reference value is smaller than the first reference value.

When the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the tray is smaller than the second reference value, the ice-making speed may be reduced, and thus the cooling power of the cooling unit may be increased to increase the ice-making speed.

Alternatively, while the cooling unit is operating with the first cooling power, if the difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the tray is less than the first reference value and more than the second reference value, the cooling power of the cooling unit may be maintained at the first cooling power. You can.

The difference between the temperature of the supplied water and the temperature of the tray may be compared with a first reference value or a second reference value over time or based on a change in the temperature of the tray. In other words, determination of the timing of variable cooling power of the cooling unit may be performed according to the temperature change of the tray over time.

As another example, a variable cooling power pattern of the cooling unit may be determined according to the shape of the ice-making cell.

For example, if the ice-making cell (or the ice produced) includes a part where the volume or mass per unit height increases, the cooling power of the cooling unit can be increased during the ice-making process. For example, if the ice-making cell is formed in a triangular shape, the cooling power of the cooling unit can be increased during the ice-making process.

Alternatively, if the ice-making cell (or the ice produced) includes a portion where the volume or mass per unit height is reduced, the cooling power of the cooling unit may be reduced during the ice-making process. For example, if the ice-making cell is formed in the shape of an inverted triangle, the cooling power of the cooling unit may be reduced during the ice-making process.

Meanwhile, the above-mentioned control method of the ice making device can be equally applied even when the ice making unit includes one tray unit.

It is also possible to apply the technology applied to the ice making device 1 to a refrigerator. That is, the refrigerator may include some or all of the components of the ice making device 1.

First, the ice making unit 40 of the ice making device 1 can be applied to the refrigerator. The refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage compartment, and a door that opens and closes the storage compartment. The ice-making room may be provided in the cabinet or door.

The ice making unit 40 may be provided in the ice making room with the same structure or a similar form as the ice making unit 40 of this embodiment.

In this embodiment, the cooling unit in the ice making device 1 may be replaced with a cooling unit or a refrigerant cycle that cools the storage compartment of the refrigerator in the refrigerator.

The guide 70, water supply mechanism 320, and water supply unit 330 provided in the ice making device 1 may be the same or applied to the refrigerator, or may be modified in shape, size, or location to suit the characteristics of the refrigerator. possible.

Claims

A tray provided in the ice-making room and having an ice-making cell for producing ice;

a cooling unit that provides cold for ice generation in the ice-making cell during the ice-making process; and

An ice making device including a controller for controlling the cooling unit.
According to claim 1,

The controller is an ice making device that increases the cooling power of the cooling unit so that the ice making speed increases after supplying cold to the tray.
According to claim 2,

The controller is an ice making device that gradually increases the cooling power of the cooling unit.
According to claim 2,

The controller is an ice making device that gradually increases the cooling power of the cooling unit over time.
According to claim 2,

Further comprising a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the tray,

The controller is an ice making device that increases cooling power of the cooling unit according to a temperature change detected by the temperature sensor.
According to claim 2,

Further comprising a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the space where the ice making device is located,

An ice making device in which the cooling power of the cooling unit is determined based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor.
A tray provided in the ice-making room and having an ice-making cell for producing ice;

A cooling unit including a compressor that operates to generate ice in the ice-making cell during the ice-making process and an evaporator that provides cold to the tray;

a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the evaporator; and

An ice making device including a controller for controlling the compressor.
According to claim 7,

The controller is an ice making device that adjusts the cooling power of the compressor based on the difference between the temperature of the water supplied to the ice making cell and the temperature of the evaporator detected by the temperature sensor.
According to claim 8,

the controller operates the compressor at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray,

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is greater than a first reference value, the controller operates the compressor with a second cooling power that is greater than the first cooling power.
According to clause 9,

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is smaller than a second reference value that is smaller than the first reference value, the controller operates the compressor with a third cooling force that is smaller than the first cooling force.
According to claim 10,

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is less than the first reference value and more than the second reference value, the controller maintains the first cooling power of the compressor.
According to claim 8,

the controller operates the compressor at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray,

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is less than a second reference value, the controller operates the compressor with a third cooling force greater than the first cooling force.
According to claim 8,

the controller operates the compressor at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray,

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is less than the first reference value and more than the second reference value, the controller maintains the first cooling power of the compressor.
According to clause 9,

The predetermined first cooling power is determined based on the temperature of the space in which the ice making device is located, or is determined based on the type of ice generated in the ice making cell.
According to claim 8,

The timing of determining whether to adjust the cooling power of the cooling unit is determined based on a temperature change in the tray detected by a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the tray, or

Ice making device determined over time.
A tray provided in the ice-making room and having an ice-making cell for producing ice;

A cooling unit that provides cold to the tray to create ice in the ice-making cell during the ice-making process;

a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the tray; and

An ice making device including a controller for controlling the cooling unit.
According to claim 16,

The controller is an ice making device that adjusts the cooling power of the cooling unit based on the difference between the temperature of the water supplied to the ice making cell and the temperature of the tray detected by the temperature sensor.
According to claim 17,

the controller operates the cooling unit at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray,

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the tray is greater than a first reference value, the controller operates the cooling unit with a second cooling power that is greater than the first cooling power.
According to claim 18,

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the tray is smaller than a second reference value that is smaller than the first reference value, the controller operates the cooling unit with a third cooling power that is smaller than the first cooling power.
According to claim 19,

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the tray is less than the first reference value and more than the second reference value, the controller maintains the first cooling power of the cooling unit.
According to claim 17,

the controller operates the cooling unit at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray,

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the tray is less than a second reference value, the controller operates the cooling unit with a third cooling power that is greater than the first cooling power.
According to claim 17,

the controller operates the cooling unit at a first predetermined cooling power to provide cold to the tray,

When the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the evaporator is less than the first reference value and more than the second reference value, the controller maintains the first cooling power of the cooling unit.
According to claim 17,

The predetermined first cooling power is determined based on the temperature of the space in which the ice making device is located, or is determined based on the type of ice generated in the ice making cell.
According to claim 17,

The time to determine whether to adjust the cooling power of the cooling unit is:

It is determined based on the temperature change of the tray detected by the temperature sensor, or

Ice making device determined over time.
A tray provided in the ice-making room and having an ice-making cell for producing ice;

a cooling unit that provides cold for ice generation in the ice-making cell during the ice-making process; and

Includes a controller for controlling the cooling unit,

When the ice-making cell includes a portion whose volume or mass per unit height increases, the cooling power of the cooling unit is increased during the ice-making process,

An ice making device that reduces the cooling power of the cooling unit during the ice making process when the ice making cell includes a portion where the volume or mass per unit height is reduced.
cabinets with storage compartments;

a door that opens and closes the storage compartment;

an ice-making room provided in the door or the cabinet;

A tray provided in the ice-making room and having an ice-making cell for producing ice;

a cooling unit for providing cold to the tray during the ice making process; and

Includes a controller for controlling the cooling unit,

The controller is configured to vary the cooling power of the cooling unit to increase the ice-making speed after supplying cold to the tray.